Blindside is a smart, cynical, spiritual and Swedish band. It’s also a
hard-rocking outfit that nevertheless has a softer side. About a
Burning Fire is a title that makes reference to God’s nature, yet this
group is not so heavenly-minded to be no earthly good. There are more
than a few tracks here that folks – whether they’re Christians or not –
can relate to.

For instance, “Hooray, It’s L.A.” reveals how the group is none too
thrilled with spending too much time in Los Angeles. Vocalist Christian
Lindskog sings about this big city’s concrete jungle in an angry and
disgusted tone. The song’s sound takes on a bit of a grunge tone, which
may be due to the fact that Billy Corgan (of Smashing Pumpkins) helps
out on guitar. The group sounds equally unimpressed with the culture on
“Die Buying,” which bemoans society’s rampant consumerism.

Lindskog is a notable vocalist, since he uses a wide variety of vocal
sounds here. On “Roads,” for instance, he reaches for a weary Counting
Crows-like Adam Duritz feel, while on “Swallow,” he nearly sounds like
he’s gargling. Elsewhere in “Hooray, It’s L.A.,” he adds a bit of Roger
Daltrey’s stuttering trick (remember “My Generation”?).

The album closes with “About a Burning Fire,” which is the only place
where the group relies solely upon predictable scream rock. Better by
far is “Roads.” This one is backed by acoustic guitar, including subtle
strings, and even sports a jazzy trumpet solo. Then, on “Shekina,” the
song begins with female-led traditional Swedish singing, which is a
vocal section that returns again later in the song. The tune has a
folky beat and even an accompanying violin in places. It also has
sitar-like sounds incorporated toward the end. Another notable track is
“After You’re Gone,” which is nearly acoustic. It features prominent
tom-tom drums, understated guitars and tortured – yet not screamed –
vocals. All of these examples show that there is a much deeper
musicality running through this outfit than its hard rock reputation
might initially lead you to believe.

“About A Burning Fire” is Christian-oriented, without being overly
preachy. You get the feeling these guys realize how difficult living
the Christian life can be, so they’re not about to get all
fundamentalist on us. Blindside’s clear vision, and sporadically
eclectic approach to hard rock, is truly refreshing.